Lessons from equity market crash: Why FD investors are having the last laugh after market falls

Market Performance - The Nifty 100 index has shown no returns since June 27, 2025, while the Midcap 150 index has increased by 1.1% and the Smallcap 250 index has decreased by 9% [1][2] - Since September 27, 2024, the Nifty 100 index has declined by 3.8%, the Midcap 150 index by 1.2%, and the Smallcap 250 index by 12.8% [2][18] Fixed Deposit (FD) Rates - Many banks and small finance banks are offering FD rates between 7% and 7.9%, despite some banks cutting rates following the Reserve Bank of India's repo rate cut [2][18] - Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) banks are offering FD rates above 6.5%, while private banks are providing rates up to 7.85%, and small finance banks are offering the highest rate of 7.9% [6][18] Investor Sentiment - In the current investment climate, capital protection is prioritized, making FD returns appear favorable [8][18] - Investors are favoring safety and guaranteed returns over higher but uncertain returns in volatile markets, leading to a psychological advantage for FD investors [9][18] Asset Allocation and Strategy - FDs are seen as stabilizing portfolios, providing liquidity, and protecting capital during market downturns [13][14] - Long-term investors are advised to maintain a disciplined asset allocation strategy, focusing on rebalancing rather than panic selling during market corrections [16][17]